Nolte'S Serious Beans
A hearty bean casserole with smoky bacon, savory sausage, and rich flavors, perfect for comforting gatherings and satisfying meat lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start with a skillet and brown the bacon; drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, brown the Polish sausage and set aside.
- Saute the chopped onion in the remaining bacon fat.
- Open the kidney beans, butter beans, and lima beans; drain in a colander.
- Combine the beans, cooked bacon and sausage, ketchup, red wine, brown sugar, dry mustard, garlic, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Serve hot or at room temperature. The dish tastes even better the next day.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or some diced smoked ham with the bacon. You can substitute the Polish sausage with kielbasa or any favorite sausage if desired. If you're short on time, canned beans can be swapped for dried beans; just ensure they are pre-cooked before adding to the mix. This dish can be made ahead of time to enhance the flavors, similar to *Harlequin Baked Beans*.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nolte's Serious Beans hot or at room temperature as a main dish or hearty side. They pair wonderfully with cornbread or a fresh green salad, such as *Layer Lettuce Salad*. For an extra touch, top with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cheese. This dish is also a great addition to potlucks and barbecues.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nolte'S Serious Beans contains roughly 988 calories, with 25g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 965mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute any of the beans for your favorites or what you have on hand. Black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas could work well, though they will alter the flavor slightly. Just ensure that the total amount remains around 60 ounces.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Nolte's Serious Beans vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and sausage. You can enhance the flavor by using smoked paprika and adding extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Consider using a vegetable broth instead of wine to maintain depth.
Can I freeze Nolte's Serious Beans?
Yes, you can freeze the beans! Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).